About Us

Several years ago, my mother was visiting me in New York. Over dinner, I told her about how we needed to shop differently for the sake of people and the planet, which would mean slowing down production processes, investing in artisans and designers, and buying fewer pieces of special items that we would cherish for a long time.

My mom listened to me for a while and finally said, "you sound just like your grandmother." Turns out, my grandma had a store in Mumbai in the 60s and 70s. She would visit different regions across India and would source beautiful, handmade home goods and clothes. Kohlapuri chappals, chikankari kurtis, and so much more. Her store was called Something Special. 

Today, my family and I bring you Silsila: a celebration of South Asian design and home goods. We are developing sustainable practices, as well as respectful, ethical partnerships with our artisans and collaborators in India. Together with our customers, we want to enthusiastically learn about and appreciate the traditions and artistry that make these products so special, and credit the culture and people who share their work with us. We work with artisans, whose skills have been passed down over generations, to source and produce our collections. 

My home is a mirror of my life. I’ve found my decor when traveling, thrifted much of my furniture, and have been gifted some of my art. My home can’t be reduced to “minimalist” or “boho” or “farmhouse” – it just reflects me, my family, our values and experiences. It is who we are today and who we want to be tomorrow. 

The word Silsila translates to saga, connection, or continuation. Our name reflects the fact that these special home goods and crafts connect us to a magical past. In many ways, we see our store as something my grandmother started a long time ago.

More importantly, your home is a space that reflects your unique dreams, desires, and memories. Your home is your creative vision. Your home is your story. Make it a good one.

-Alysha Lalji, co-founder